Tetradenia riparia, an ethnobotanical plant with diverse applications, from antimicrobial to anti-proliferative activity against cancerous cell lines: A systematic review

Abstract

IntroductionFor time immemorial, medicinal plants have been used to cure numerous diseases and also as an appliance to attain good health conditions. To a large extent, their efficacy and safety have been scientifically researched to ensure the quality standards of the drugs made from medicinal plants. This review portrays a native African herbaceous plant known as Tetradenia riparia, a member of the Lamiaceae family. The aim was to compile all its ethnobotanical uses, along with their related in vitro studies and phytochemical analysis and to comprehensively discuss its prospect and commercial use in modern phytomedicine. MethodsSeveral bibliographies were retrieved using two prominent search engines; Google Scholar and Scopus. The literature search particularly covered published articles, books and conference proceedings from the last five decades. Particularly those focusing on in vitro and ethno-botanic studies related to extracts, phytochemicals, and essential oils from Tetradenia riparia have been used in this review. ResultsSeveral scholars have demonstrated its potential for a multitude of actions, including antimicrobial, microbicidal and anti-inflammatory activities. Extracts from this medicinal herbaceous plant are often used to treat inflammatory and infectious diseases. The leaves and essential oils have been accustomed to treat candidiasis, cryptococcosis, malaria and respiratory infections. Furthermore, this traditional medicinal plant is still popular in South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda. Discussion/ConclusionsUnderstanding Tetradenia riparia’s therapeutic actions will greatly advance the development of new and marketable herbal medicinal products. Moreover, it will improve the health conditions of millions of people who don’t have access to high-quality healthcare.